Brown Hairstreak
Common NameBrown Hairstreak
Scientific NameThecla betulae
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyTheclinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsorange, brown, white
HabitatWoodland edges, hedgerows, scrubland, often near blackthorn thickets
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia to Japan
Host PlantsPrunus spinosa (Blackthorn), Prunus domestica (Plum), Prunus padus (Bird Cherry)
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on blackthorn twigs in late summer and overwinter. Larvae hatch in spring, feeding on buds and young leaves, then pupate near the ground. Adults emerge in mid-summer.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive white stripe and reddish-orange border on the orange-brown underside of the wings, especially when perched with wings closed. The small, delicate tails on the hindwings are also a key feature.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with rich orange-brown undersides featuring a prominent white post-discal stripe and a reddish-orange submarginal band, often with small tails on the hindwings. The upperside is typically darker brown with orange patches, especially in females.
